The cross represents the four Celtic Seasons; Samhain, Imbolg, Bealtine and Lughasagh, it's the beginning of the wheel moving.
Even though the weather is bad, there is a notion of Spring in the air and on the ground.
Growing in South West Kerry, there was always plenty of activity for this time of year. Groups of people playing music, dressed and masked to horrendous promotions, would call around to the houses. Very much like the "wren, but these revelers would call at night.
The group were called "the Biddy and would carry a doll to represent the goddess herself.
People would also put out a small piece of white material, so, the goddess would touch it and imbue it with her growing power.
This Brat Braide was used for healing and Childbirth.
Let us celebrate and trust in the goddess to bring growth, spring and procperity to us all.
Sean O'Laoghaire
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| A Close up, to make sure you're on the right track, always remember, the Celts were a very forgiving people, it's what is in your heart that counts, not what's in their rule book! |
